Investigation Underway After Ten Inmates Escape New Orleans Prison
The Louisiana Attorney General, Liz Maril, spoke about an ongoing investigation into the escape of ten inmates from a New Orleans prison during an interview on Wednesday morning. Maril emphasized that authorities are working to understand how this happened and are pursuing leads that may lead to more arrests of individuals who assisted the escapees.
“This incident will definitely lead to further action,” she remarked. The investigation has already resulted in the arrest of a prison employee, Sterling Williams, who stands accused of aiding the inmates in their flight.
Five of the ten escapees from New Orleans prisons remain at large.
Maril noted that, despite the time elapsed since the breakout occurred on Friday morning at the Orleans County Correctional Facility, law enforcement is still following promising leads and believes that the remaining escapees are likely still nearby. “I’ve alerted authorities in neighboring states,” she mentioned, “but honestly, if they’re looking for support, they’re probably not straying too far from home.” It’s a logical assumption, given their ties to the area.
So far, any recaptured escapees have been located within New Orleans itself. Maril added, “They were just children during Hurricane Katrina. Their connections are here, so I really hope they stick around. Unfortunately, the longer they’re out there, the more they might feel the need to rely on others for help.”
Gary Price, an escaped prisoner, is shown being apprehended by police.
On Tuesday night, Louisiana State Police announced the capture of 19-year-old Corey Boyd, who had been on the run. Boyd claimed he was taken to a correctional facility outside the area; he now faces charges for a simple escape. Earlier, he was charged with serious crimes, including murder related to a carjacking.
The situation gained national attention on Tuesday when police arrested a second individual, 33-year-old Williams, employed by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. He faces ten counts related to the escape. According to the arrest affidavit, he alleged that threats of violence coerced his involvement.
In discussing the investigation, it appears that authorities are working systematically to gather evidence and respond accordingly. The affidavit suggests that Williams mentioned he hadn’t made proper security checks while under pressure from an outside individual.
The profiles of the remaining escapees reveal serious charges against them, such as illegal possession of firearms, second-degree murder, and robbery. Each one reflects the challenges law enforcement faces in recapturing these individuals.
- Renton J. Vanbren Jr., 26, facing illegal weapon transport charges.
- Jermaine Donald, 42, accused of second-degree murder.
- Antoine Massey, 32, with a history of fleeing custody.
- Derrick Groves, 27, facing multiple counts of murder.
- Leo O. Tate Sr., 31, charged with various drug and weapon offenses.
This complex situation continues to develop, as law enforcement remains committed to tracking down those who have escaped as well as rooting out any inside assistance.
